Harrow Council to Review Support for Residents Facing Terminal Illness and Financial Hardship
Harrow Council has pledged to conduct a comprehensive review of its support for residents experiencing terminal illness and financial hardship, following the approval of a motion at a recent council meeting.
The motion, brought forward by Councillor Yusuf Yusuf and seconded by Councillor David Perry, was debated and passed at the council meeting on Thursday, October 1, 2026. It calls for an in-depth examination of the existing support mechanisms available to households in Harrow affected by these challenging circumstances.
Addressing Financial Strain During Illness
The motion highlighted research by the charity Marie Curie, which indicates that a significant number of people in the UK die in poverty. It was noted that Harrow's current Council Tax Support Scheme does not offer specific additional assistance for terminal illness, although applications can be prioritised. Councillor Yusuf Yusuf clarified that the motion's aim is not the immediate introduction of a new scheme, but rather a thorough review to assess the potential benefits, costs, and practical implications of providing more targeted support.
Councillor Paul Osborne, Leader of the Council, moved an amendment to confirm the review would be internal. He also acknowledged that the timeline for implementing any changes might extend beyond the 2027/28 budget cycle. This amendment was accepted, and the amended motion was carried.
Existing Support and Future Considerations
Beyond the Council Tax Support Scheme, Harrow currently operates a discretionary Council Tax reduction scheme. Additionally, a Crisis and Resilience Fund
and other relevant local assistance
are available and will be considered as part of the review. The motion specifically requests that the review examine The support currently available through Council Tax Support, discretionary Council Tax reductions, the Crisis and Resilience Fund and other relevant local assistance.
The review will explore the feasibility of introducing a defined discretionary Council Tax reduction for eligible households affected by terminal illness. This will involve considering the council's discretionary powers under section 13A(1)(c) of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, which allows local authorities to reduce Council Tax liability in individual cases where appropriate. The review will also assess appropriate eligibility and evidence requirements, the estimated number of households that could benefit, and the potential financial costs.
Timeline for Review and Implementation
The motion passed requests that the findings of the review, along with options and indicative financial implications, be reported through the appropriate decision-making process in sufficient time for any agreed financial implications to be considered as part of the Council's 2027/28 budget-setting process.
Councillor Paul Osborne, Leader of the Council, reiterated that the timeline for implementing any changes might extend beyond the 2027/28 budget cycle.
The overarching aim of the review is to ensure that residents facing terminal illness can access support as quickly and simply as possible, offering dignity, clarity, and compassion during what is undoubtedly a difficult time. Further details on the council's agenda and reports can be found in the Public reports pack.